Crackdown on Sex Crimes Continues

Alleged child molester Hershel Taubenfeld of New Square has turned himself in to Ramapo Police as of 10:30 a.m. this morning. Previously he had fled the area when his impending arrest was announced by police.

Recently a victim of Taubenfeld came forward willing to go through with the prosecution of the case and sources said police may arrest others in Taubenfeld’s circle in the coming weeks. Sources said Taubenfeld is a well-connected resident of the Hasidic village.

Police have taken a heightened interest and have been more successful in pursuing such cases within the Hasidic community, since certain activists like Brooklyn Rabbi Nuchem Rosenberg have made light of the abuse. Others have also helped, though most would rather not have their names known.

These activists have been setting up support networks for victims of abuse, as the most difficult aspect of prosecuting abuse charges is finding a victim willing to go through the trauma of the legal process.

Ramapo Police reported that after receiving a complaint, in early November 2011, of a possible sex abuse incident in the Village of New Square the department began an investigation. On December 7, 2011 charges were filed against New Square resident Hershel Taubenfeld. On December 14 (today) at 10:30 a.m. Hershel Taubenfeld turned himself in to the Village of New Square Court. Taubenfeld, who was represented by counsel, Kenneth Gribetz, was arraigned on the following charges:

• 10 counts of Forcible Touching (Class A Misdemeanor)

• 10 counts of Endangering the welfare of a Child (Class A Misdemeanor)

• 10 counts of Sex Abuse in the 3rd degree (Class B Misdemeanor)

The charges against Taubenfeld resulted from his actions with a minor male over a five month time period between March 2011 and July 2011, police said. The alleged incidents of abuse, between Taubenfeld and his victim all occurred at Taubenfeld’s residence at #92 North Garfield Dr. in the Village of New Square.

Judge Salas of New Square Village Court set bail at $15,000 with a return date of February 6 at 6 p.m. in the New Square Village Court. Taubenfeld was transported to the Ramapo PD by RPD officers where he was processed. Due to the nature of the offense and age of the victim police said his name and age will not be released.